UXBRIDGE - New Year's day brought record-tying cold to the Worcester area, but by 1 p.m., when the temperature had warmed to around 10 degrees from its low of -5 that morning, the cold presented no obstacle to dozens who came to Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park for a First Day Hike.
The temperature tied the record low for Jan. 1 set in 1918, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Lenore Correia in Taunton.
"We were expecting 20 (hikers), and we're at 85," said Jody Madden, lead supervisor at the park.
Dot Russell of Ashland said, "It's something to do on New Year's day. We need the exercise."
Mrs. Russell and her husband, Jim, said the key to winter hiking was the four layers of clothes they were wearing, including two layers - a hat and jacket hood - on their head. Ski pants and insulated gloves helped.
The hardy trekkers could participate in one or all of three route segments along the canal towpath and field, led by state Department of Conservation and Recreation park rangers. Afterward, they returned to the River Bend Farm visitor center for hot chocolate, cookies and activities provided by Blackstone Heritage Corridor and Blackstone River Watershed Association volunteers.
Gary Powers came to the hike from West Warwick, Rhode Island, after a polar plunge he had been contemplating was canceled.
"It's a lot better than jumping in the water," he said.
Robyn Stewart of Southboro was attending her second annual First Day Hike at River Bend Farm. She came solo because her husband was at work and she couldn't convince her children, ages 10 and 12, to come along.
Ms. Stewart said she fell in love with the park last year, when she set out on a goal to "get outside more and find your happy place." Wearing a down coat and heat-retaining Uniqlo base-layer top, she declared the brisk day, "not bad."
Paul and Marie Giannetti, who moved to Grafton recently from Brewster, opted for the warmth of the visitor center after the first portion of the hike, but said they were interested in getting involved and volunteering in more local activities.
"It was fun. I'm glad we did it," Mr. Giannetti said.
Mr. Madden said the park was hosting a winter hiking series for beginners to help hikers enjoy the trails year-round. The hikes, which run from 3 miles to 7 miles, will be Jan. 13, Feb. 24 and March 17. Call 508-278-7604 for information.
And while Worcester probably won't see temperatures above freezing before Jan. 9, according to Ms. Correia, it may be warmer by the next scheduled hike.